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STAFF

ORP understands that our employees are our most valuable asset and we strive to create an atmosphere that encourages creativity, collaboration and respect. We offer competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to grow your career. Apply today to join our team!

Independent Contractor – Creel Clerk
Fisheries Recreational Harvest Data Program  

COMPENSATION

$20.78/hour (Contractor hourly rate) 

POSITION SUMMARY 

The Oyster Recovery Partnership (ORP) is seeking motivated, detail‑oriented independent contractors to support the Access Point Angler Intercept Survey (APAIS), in support of the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recreational fisheries monitoring program. APAIS contributes to the National Marine Fisheries Service’s Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP), which provides essential data used to estimate recreational fishing activity and harvest along the Atlantic coast. 

This opportunity is ideal for individuals who enjoy working outdoors, interacting with the public, and contributing to the scientific understanding and sustainable management of Maryland’s fisheries.  Contractors will conduct monthly surveys throughout coastal Maryland, including the Chesapeake Bay, coastal bays, ocean shoreline, and on headboats conducting for-hire recreational fishing trips. The number, location, dates, and times of the assignments will vary each month. Applicants residing in Worcester, Somerset, Wicomico, Dorchester, Talbot, Caroline, Queen Annes, Kent, Cecil, Harford, Baltimore, Baltimore City, Anne Arundel, Calvert, St. Mary’s, and Charles counties will be considered.  

SCOPE OF WORK

Independent contractors will: 

• Select dates to determine availability to conduct surveys during sampling waves.
• Independently plan, organize and conduct assigned field visits to collect MRIP data.   
• Travel to assigned public docks, piers, beaches, marinas, and other angler access points. 
• Engage anglers in brief interviews about their fishing activity and experience. 
• Identify, weigh, and measure fish species when applicable. 
• Conduct intercepts on half‑day and full‑day headboat trips and complete site‑inspection assignments. 
• Follow MRIP and DNR protocols to ensure high‑quality, reliable data collection. 
• Submit completed data regularly and participate in the data‑review process until all submissions pass DNR quality‑assurance checks. 
• Attend required training on MRIP protocols and updates.    

Contractors work remotely and independently. All work assignments require in-state travel using a personal vehicle; mileage will be reimbursed. Contractors will be provided with a tablet for data collection and a smartphone for safety and communication. Contractors must also have access to a personal computer. 

CONTRACT TERM & WORKLOAD EXPECTATIONS

This is a 12‑month independent contractor agreement with the potential for annual renewal. APAIS operates March through December, with approximately 70% of assignments occurring on weekends and holidays. Some assignments take place in the evening or at night and may involve coordination with another contractor. 

Monthly survey schedules are finalized approximately two weeks prior to survey implementation. Contractors will receive their field assignment schedule for each month by the 20th of the previous month. Contractors will provide project coordinators with dates they are unavailable during the survey month, and final schedules will account for both availability and survey needs. During the sampling season (March through December), contractors typically receive 20-40 hours of survey work per week, though hours vary based on project needs.  

Out-of-state training on APAIS field procedures and fish identification will be provided by the Atlantic Coastal Cooperative Statistics Program in February of each year. Attendance is required for all field staff. Additional limited tasks may be assigned in January and February to prepare for the sampling season. 

Note: As independent contractors, individuals are not eligible for overtime pay, paid leave, or employee benefits. 

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

Education: High school diploma. 

Experience: No prior experience is required. Training will be provided on MRIP protocols and updates.   

Additional Requirements: 

• Valid driver’s license and reliable vehicle.
• Access to a computer.
• Knowledge of Maryland marine fish species and prior creel‑survey experience are highly desirable. 

SELECTION PROCESS

Applicants should provide sufficient detail to demonstrate that they meet the minimum qualifications. Relevant coursework, experience, and technical skills should be clearly described. Qualified applicants will move forward to the next stage of evaluation. 

Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter to Kinsey Tedford-Callahan, [email protected], 410-990-4970 ext. 1031.  

Application deadline: Friday February 27th, 2026 at 5pm
Anticipated start date: March 30th, 2026